Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council Health and Recreation Department
🚴 From Richhill to Banbridge: My Life on Two Wheels
If you ever find yourself driving between Richhill and Banbridge and spot a cyclist powering along the road with a grin on their face and the wind in their hair — there’s a good chance it’s me! I probably cycle this route twice a week, covering about 18 to 19 miles each way, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
I live in Banbridge and have been cycling regularly for about 12 years now. What started as a casual interest turned into a much-loved part of my life. I’d always enjoyed watching cycling on TV — the Tour de France, the Giro d’Italia, all the big races — and I remember thinking, “this could be a pretty great lifelong hobby”
🚴♂️ Sundays Are for Spokes
Sundays are sacred. That’s when a few friends and I from Velo Club Iveagh, our small-but-mighty Banbridge-based cycling club, head out for a proper spin. I’ve been in the club for 10 years now, and while some of the lads race competitively, I’m strictly here for the joyride. For us, a typical Sunday route might be a breezy 50-miler to Newcastle and back — or a relaxed 25-mile loop around the local countryside, depending on how ambitious (or well-caffeinated) we’re feeling.
The thing about VCIveagh is it’s more than just a club — it’s a community. You get to chat, challenge each other, share laughs, and sometimes even race to the next road sign just because someone got a bit competitive with their breakfast.
🚴♀️ Cycling Memories and Markethill Magic
I remember when the Giro d’Italia came to Armagh — what a buzz! I’d only been cycling for a couple of years back then, but I made the trip to Markethill to watch it whizz by. The colour, the crowds, the sheer excitement — it was electrifying. It made me fall even more in love with the sport.
And yes — I’ve even taken my bike to New York. Because cycling doesn’t stop just because you’ve crossed the Atlantic.
🚿 The Madman With the Bike (aka Me)
Now, let’s talk commuting. I cycle to and from work — and my colleagues at IncredABLE think I’m a bit bonkers for it. “You have a car!” they say. Yes, I do. But why drive when you can pedal your way into a good mood before 9am?
Thanks to the shower facilities at work (a total game-changer), I roll in refreshed, hop in for a quick rinse, and by 9 o’clock I’m at my desk with a cup of tea, a bowl of cereal, and a whole load of fresh air in my lungs. My morning workout? Done and dusted before the first email of the day hits my inbox.
And the ride home? That’s when the stress of the day melts away. By the time I get back to Banbridge, I’ve processed everything, my head is clear, and the evening is mine to enjoy.
🚲 Why I Keep Pedalling
For me, cycling isn’t about racing or records — it’s about freedom, fun, and feeling good. It’s watching the countryside blur by, breathing in the fresh air, and occasionally chasing the sunrise or sunset (depending on how early or late you’re out).
It’s a lifestyle that keeps you fit, clears your head, and — if you ask me — makes life just a little more exciting.
So, if you ever wonder why someone would hop on a bike when they’ve got a perfectly good car in the driveway… maybe it’s time to dust off your helmet and find out for yourself. 😉
Happy Cycling!
Martin
